1 Corinthians 6:12

KJV

¶ All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

KJV (with Strong's)

All things {G3956} are lawful {G1832} unto me {G3427}, but {G235} all things {G3956} are {G4851} not {G3756} expedient {G4851}: all things {G3956} are lawful {G1832} for me {G3427}, but {G235} I {G1473} will {G1850} not {G3756} be brought under the power {G1850} of {G5259} any {G5100}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You say, “For me, everything is permitted”? Maybe, but not everything is helpful. “For me, everything is permitted”? Maybe, but as far as I am concerned, I am not going to let anything gain control over me.

Berean Standard Bible

“Everything is permissible for me,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me,” but I will not be mastered by anything.

American Standard Version

All things are lawful for me; but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful for me; but I will not be brought under the power of any.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Corinthians 6:12 encapsulates a foundational principle of Christian liberty, asserting that while believers are indeed free from legalistic constraints, this freedom is not an unbridled license. Apostle Paul masterfully qualifies the Corinthian slogan "All things are lawful unto me" by introducing two crucial ethical filters: expediency (what is truly beneficial or constructive) and mastery (avoiding enslavement to anything other than Christ). This verse serves as a vital guide for discerning Christian conduct, urging believers to evaluate actions not merely by their permissibility but by their edifying impact and their potential to compromise spiritual freedom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse stands at a pivotal point within Paul's letter, specifically within a section (1 Corinthians 5-7) where he addresses various moral issues plaguing the Corinthian church. Immediately preceding [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1_corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Liberty and Self-Control"), Paul has sternly rebuked the Corinthians for tolerating sexual immorality among their members ([1 Corinthians 5:1-13](/1_corinthians/5-1-13 "1 Corinthians 5:1-13 - Dealing with Immorality in the Church")) and for settling disputes in pagan courts rather than among believers ([1 Corinthians 6:1-8](/1_corinthians/6-1-8 "1 Corinthians 6:1-8 - Lawsuits Among Believers")). He then transitions to a powerful theological argument regarding the sanctity of the believer's body, proclaiming it a "temple of the Holy Spirit" and "members of Christ" ([1 Corinthians 6:15-20](/1_corinthians/6-15-20 "1 Corinthians 6:15-20 - Our Bodies, Temples of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1_corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Freedom and Responsibility") acts as a bridge, challenging a potentially misused concept of freedom that could justify the very immoralities Paul condemns. It sets the stage for Paul's subsequent discussions on marriage, food sacrificed to idols, and the proper exercise of spiritual gifts, all of which are framed by the principles of expediency and avoiding enslavement.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Corinth was a prominent Roman colony, a bustling port city renowned for its commercial prosperity and notorious for its pervasive immorality. The city was a melting pot of diverse cultures, philosophies, and religious practices, including the worship of Aphrodite, which often involved temple prostitution. This environment fostered a culture where self-indulgence and a pursuit of pleasure were common. Within this context, many new converts to Christianity, having been liberated from paganism and the Mosaic Law, may have misinterpreted their newfound freedom in Christ as an absolute license to engage in any behavior, believing that "all things are lawful." This slogan likely circulated among some Corinthian believers, possibly as a justification for behaviors that, while not explicitly forbidden by the Law (which they were no longer under), were nonetheless detrimental to their spiritual well-being or their witness. Paul's nuanced response directly confronts this cultural backdrop, guiding them toward a mature understanding of Christian liberty that transcends mere permissibility.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1_corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Liberty and Self-Control") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Paul's letter. Firstly, it develops the theme of **Christian Liberty**, emphasizing that freedom in Christ is not an end in itself but a means to glorify God and serve others. This liberty is not absolute license but is qualified by love and wisdom, a concept further elaborated in [1 Corinthians 8-10](/1_corinthians/8 "1 Corinthians 8-10 - Food Sacrificed to Idols and Christian Freedom"). Secondly, the verse introduces the theme of **Expediency and Edification**, highlighting that actions should be evaluated not just by their permissibility but by their beneficial and constructive impact on oneself and the community. This principle is foundational to Paul's ethical framework, as seen in his discussion of food sacrificed to idols, where he prioritizes the edification of the weaker brother over the exercise of one's freedom ([1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")). Thirdly, it addresses the theme of **Self-Mastery and Avoiding Enslavement**, asserting that believers must not allow anything to gain dominion over them, lest it hinder their devotion to Christ. This speaks to the importance of spiritual discipline and discerning what truly promotes spiritual health versus what might become a controlling habit or addiction. This theme is closely linked to the **Sanctity of the Body**, as Paul argues that the body, as a temple of the Holy Spirit, must be used for God's glory and not for sin ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **lawful (Greek, _éxesti'_):** This word (G1832) is derived from a compound meaning "to be out in public," and impersonally, it signifies "it is right" or "it is permissible." In the context of the Corinthian slogan, it denotes an action that is not forbidden by law or custom, implying a sense of freedom or allowance. Paul affirms this aspect of Christian liberty, acknowledging that many things are indeed permissible for the believer who is no longer under the Mosaic Law. However, he immediately qualifies this permissibility, indicating that "lawful" does not equate to "beneficial."
* **expedient (Greek, _symphérō'_):** From _symphérō_ (G4851), meaning "to bear together" or "to contribute," this word, when used impersonally, refers to what is advantageous, profitable, or beneficial. It carries the sense of what is "good for" or "conduces to" a positive outcome. Paul introduces this crucial qualifier to the "lawful" statement, shifting the focus from mere permissibility to practical utility and spiritual benefit. An action might be permissible, but if it does not build up, edify, or contribute to spiritual health, it is not "expedient."
* **be brought under the power (Greek, _exousiázō'_):** This verb (G1850) means "to control" or "to exercise authority upon." In the passive voice, as used here, it means "to be controlled" or "to be brought under the power of." Paul's declaration, "I will not be brought under the power of any," asserts his spiritual independence and self-mastery. It highlights the danger of allowing even permissible things to become masters, creating a dependency or addiction that diminishes one's freedom in Christ and shifts allegiance away from God. This speaks to the internal freedom that should characterize a believer, free from the dominion of anything other than the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All things are lawful unto me":** This phrase is widely understood to be a slogan or common saying among some within the Corinthian church. It reflects a legitimate understanding of Christian liberty, signifying that believers are no longer bound by the ceremonial or civil laws of the Old Testament, nor by the legalistic interpretations of the Pharisees. In Christ, they have freedom from sin's dominion and the law's condemnation. However, this statement, if taken in isolation, could be twisted into a justification for licentiousness, implying that anything goes.
* **"but all things are not expedient":** Here, Paul introduces the first critical qualification to the Corinthian slogan. The conjunction "but" (Greek, _allá_) signals a strong contrast. While something may be permissible ("lawful"), it might not be "expedient" (beneficial, advantageous, or profitable) for spiritual growth, for the well-being of others, or for the advancement of the gospel. This introduces a higher ethical standard than mere legality, urging believers to consider the constructive and edifying impact of their actions.
* **"all things are lawful for me":** Paul repeats the slogan, reinforcing his agreement with the premise of Christian liberty. This repetition serves to acknowledge the truth of their freedom while simultaneously preparing the ground for his second, equally vital qualification. It shows that Paul is not denying their freedom but rather refining their understanding of it.
* **"but I will not be brought under the power of any.":** This is Paul's second, personal qualification, and it speaks to the issue of mastery and spiritual autonomy. Even if an action is lawful and potentially expedient, Paul declares that he will not allow anything to gain control or dominion over him. This is a powerful assertion of self-control and a warning against addiction or dependency. True Christian freedom means being free *from* the power of sin and *from* the power of anything that could enslave the believer, diverting their ultimate allegiance from Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several effective literary devices in [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1_corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Liberty and Self-Control") to convey his profound theological point. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, where Paul sets up a direct contrast between two ideas: "lawful" versus "not expedient," and "lawful" versus "not brought under the power of any." This sharp juxtaposition highlights the nuance of Christian liberty, moving beyond a simplistic understanding of permissibility. The **Repetition** of "All things are lawful unto me" serves to acknowledge the Corinthians' assertion of freedom, affirming its truth before immediately qualifying it. This rhetorical move allows Paul to validate their premise while simultaneously correcting their potential misapplication. Furthermore, Paul's use of a likely **Slogan or Proverb** ("All things are lawful unto me") demonstrates his pastoral wisdom. By quoting their own saying, he meets them where they are, engaging directly with their prevailing thought, and then subtly redefines its meaning within a Christ-centered framework. This approach makes his correction more relatable and impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in [1 Corinthians 6:12](/1_corinthians/6-12 "1 Corinthians 6:12 - Christian Liberty and Self-Control") is a cornerstone of New Testament ethics, establishing that Christian liberty is not a license for self-indulgence but a call to responsible, Christ-honoring living. It teaches that freedom in Christ is always to be exercised within the bounds of love, wisdom, and the pursuit of God's glory. This principle prevents antinomianism (the belief that Christians are free from moral law) while upholding the true spiritual freedom gained through Christ. It challenges believers to move beyond a minimalist "what can I get away with?" mentality to a maximalist "what will most glorify God and edify others?" perspective. The verse underscores the importance of self-control and discerning what truly builds up the individual and the community, rather than merely what is permissible.

* [1 Corinthians 10:23-24](/1_corinthians/10-23-24 "1 Corinthians 10:23-24 - All Things are Lawful, But Not All Things Edify")
* [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")
* [Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Freedom for Service, Not for Flesh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Corinthians 6:12 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of Christian living in a world full of choices. It compels us to critically examine our actions, habits, and pursuits through a dual lens: "Is it beneficial?" and "Does it control me?" In an age saturated with options—from entertainment and technology to dietary choices and financial habits—this verse calls for a mature and discerning spirituality. It challenges us to look beyond mere permissibility and consider the broader impact of our choices on our spiritual health, our witness to the world, and the well-being of our community. True freedom in Christ is not the absence of boundaries, but the power to choose what is truly good, constructive, and glorifying to God, rather than being enslaved by anything that might diminish our devotion or hinder our walk with Him. This requires self-awareness, prayerful discernment, and a willingness to surrender even "lawful" things if they prove to be unexpedient or enslaving.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "lawful" activities or habits in my life might not be truly "expedient" for my spiritual growth or the edification of others?**
* **Are there any areas where I am allowing something, even a seemingly innocuous thing, to gain "power" or control over me, diverting my focus from Christ?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of self-control and discernment in my daily choices, moving beyond mere permissibility to seek what is truly beneficial and God-honoring?**
* **In what ways can my exercise of Christian liberty either build up or tear down the body of Christ or my witness to the world?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "lawful" in this verse?**

Answer: When Paul states "All things are lawful unto me," he is likely quoting a common slogan or belief held by some in the Corinthian church. "Lawful" (Greek, _éxesti_) means permissible or allowed. In the context of Christian liberty, it signifies that believers are no longer under the strict regulations of the Mosaic Law or bound by legalistic external rules. Their freedom in Christ means they are not condemned for actions that were once forbidden by the Law but are not inherently sinful, nor are they bound by human traditions. However, Paul immediately qualifies this, indicating that "lawful" does not automatically mean "beneficial" or "wise."

**How does "expedient" differ from "lawful"?**

Answer: "Lawful" refers to what is permissible or allowed, not explicitly forbidden. "Expedient" (Greek, _symphérō_) goes beyond mere permissibility; it means what is advantageous, beneficial, profitable, or constructive. Paul introduces "expedient" as a crucial filter for Christian behavior. An action might be lawful (not forbidden), but if it does not build up, edify, or promote spiritual well-being for oneself or others, then it is not expedient. For example, eating certain foods might be lawful, but if it causes a weaker brother to stumble, it is not expedient ([1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")).

**What does it mean to "not be brought under the power of any"?**

Answer: This phrase means not allowing anything, even a lawful activity, to gain control or mastery over one's life. The Greek word for "brought under the power" (_exousiázō_) implies being dominated or enslaved. Paul is asserting his spiritual independence, refusing to let any habit, desire, or pursuit become an addiction or a controlling force that detracts from his devotion to Christ. This speaks to the importance of self-control and discerning when a permissible activity crosses the line into a dependency that hinders one's freedom in Christ and allegiance to God. It is a call to ensure that Christ alone remains the ultimate master of one's life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Corinthians 6:12, though addressing practical ethical dilemmas, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ. Our freedom from the law's condemnation and sin's dominion is entirely a gift purchased by Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse of the Law")). He did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")), demonstrating perfect obedience and living a life entirely expedient and never brought under the power of sin or any earthly thing. Jesus himself, though having all authority, consistently chose what was beneficial for the Kingdom and never allowed worldly desires or even legitimate needs to control Him ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")). He freely submitted His will to the Father's, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). For believers, true liberty is not found in boundless license but in being "slaves of Christ" ([1 Corinthians 7:22](/1_corinthians/7-22 "1 Corinthians 7:22 - Called to Freedom in Christ")), whose perfect freedom empowers us through the Holy Spirit to choose what is expedient and to resist being mastered by anything other than God's will. The Spirit enables us to bear the fruit of self-control ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")), transforming our desires so that our freedom is exercised in a way that honors Christ and builds up His body, reflecting His own perfect example of love and self-sacrifice.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 10:23

¶ All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

1 Corinthians 10:33

Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

1 Corinthians 9:27

But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Hebrews 12:15

Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;

Hebrews 12:16

Lest there [be] any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

Romans 14:14

I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean.

Romans 14:23

And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because [he eateth] not of faith: for whatsoever [is] not of faith is sin.